New type of crossing signal activated

The city’s new HAWK signal at Fifth and Lindsey streets has been activated to make pedestrian crossings safer into Mill Race Park.

HAWK is an acronym for high-intensity pedestrian activated walk.

Here’s how the signal works:

After a pedestrian activates the signal, the lights flash yellow to warn drivers a pedestrian or bicyclist is going to cross. The light then flashes steady yellow, advising drivers to stop if safe to do so.

The signal then turns solid red, requiring vehicles to stop while the individual crosses. Once the walk time is completed, the signal goes to flashing red, requiring drivers to stop, and then proceed through the intersection if no one is in the crosswalk.